Washington Dance Classes Washington, DC

Washington, D.C., dance instructors discuss the lessons they offer

What styles of dancing do you teach?

Doug Yeuell: "Ballet, tap, modern, hip-hop, jazz, belly dance, flamenco and all styles of ballroom dance."

Schain Lolachy: "We teach the American style of the foxtrot, waltz, rumba, cha-cha, swing, tango, samba, merenegue, mambo, polka, salsa and disco."

Terry Chasteen: "Every style of dance known to man. We teach all of the social and partnership dances."

What is your experience in this industry?

Yeuell: "Close to 25 years."

Lolachy: "I have been teaching and dancing for 35 years."

Chasteen: "I started teaching in 1974 and have been teaching and dancing ever since."

Besides learning how to dance, what are some other reasons people take lessons?

Yeuell: "For physical exercise. It's a means of creative expression, and it's also fun."

Lolachy: "For special occasions like weddings or company parties, to spice up a marriage or just getting back into life."

Chasteen: "It's a good social outlet. It's great exercise, and it keeps you sharp as far as coordination."

How do you charge for dance lessons and what's the cost?

Yeuell: "Classes can be anywhere from an hour to two hours long and range from $15 to $17. People can also purchase packages of 10 lessons for $140, 20 lessons for $260 or 30 lessons for $360."

Lolachy: "The smallest program is $255. That includes three one-hour private lessons, three one-hour group classes and three two -hour practice parties."

Chasteen: "We have classes that are drop-in costing $12 to $15 per hour depending on the class. Private coaching is by appointment from $65 to $85 an hour depending on the type of dance."

How often do you recommend your clients take a class with you? Do they need to practice outside of class?

Yeuell: "I recommend a minimum of two classes a week. In general, we recommend practice."

Lolachy: "At least once a week. I recommend at least 20 minutes of practice a day."

Chasteen: "I think you have to take dance at least once a week. They should practice outside of class."

How far in advance does someone need to schedule lessons with you before they can start?

Yeuell: "There's no advance notice. We have drop-in classes."

Lolachy: "A week."

Chasteen: "Classes are drop in, but for private coaching it's good to schedule a day or so in advance."

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